Sentences with phrase «bodies over congregations»

And, in most denominations, there is too much hierarchy in the clergy and too much power in leaders and governing bodies over congregations and congregants.

Not exact matches

Supposedly, then, no body such as a synod or presbytery had any power over congregations.

«It seems be couldn't keep his body and his soul aligned,» the young pastor said, and seemed a little lost for words until he left the pulpit, walked over and opened the casket, took out a harmonica and began to play «Just As I Am» while everyone in the congregation nodded and wept and smiled, some of them mouthing the words of promise and comfort to themselves.

When the church is consumed and possessed by mortgages, capital campaigns, membership numbers, qualifications for membership or deacon or elder, the variety and format of financial reports, redecorating, ordination policies, the proper delineation of committee responsibilities, the aggregation and strengthening and protection of church hierarchical authority, the preference for political associations and prominence instead of being a voice and influence for justice and compassion, seasonal vestment colors, the abandonment and refusal to acknowledge congregations who dare to be excited by their proclaiming and provoking and living and sharing the Good News, the continual choosing and preoccupation with better organization over better outreach, or what styles of worship are to be offered — then it is time for an earth - shaking, stone - rolling, curtain ripping, hurricane - strength, fiery and noisy transformational revolution that will resurrect the Good News in the body and spirit of communities and individuals.

It is clear that each of these churches had a body of elders and a corps of deacons; but presiding over both and over the congregation as a whole is the bishop.